You are probably wondering what are the secrets of the the red lantern/ For me it will always be a wonderful evening spent with my young niece in Canada. I was home for the holidays in the bitter cold of Ottawa. A city that I had grown up in but have no desire to live in. My niece had the suggestion of going to the book store so we may spend an evening together and she could buy me a Christmas present. C. had the idea that it would be more meaningful for the two of us to go shopping together for my present.
We had a wonderful evening sitting down sipping hot chocolate, talking and then browsing thru the bookstore for a present. After pulling many books of the shelf we both agreed that this would make a wonderful gift.
She could not have been more insightful. The book is a compilation of stories and vietnamese recipes given to us by a family who escaped Vietnam after the war, spending a year in a Thai refugee camp before settling in Australia.
I love cookbooks that have photographs of the recipes, this book has many such wonderful photos, along with photos of the family.
C. thank you for the present. It is now time to figure out what to make for dinner.

Ideally situated Place de la République, a large Parisian square, this exclusive 4-star hotel features tastefully designed rooms in a bewitching setting. Built in a Neo-Baroque style in the 19th century, around the same time as Opéra Garnier, the hotel boasts a striking façade, heritage of the Golden Age of the rebuilding of Paris.

Thanks to an excellent public transport network, you will reach quickly the many famous sites and attractions of Paris. Moreover, the nearby historic Marais district offers a wide choice of trendy shops and pleasant walks through the lively narrow streets.

Holiday Inn République is a perfect place to stay as it will meet the demands of the most discerning guest, whether on business or leisure trip. The restaurant serves traditional French cuisine whereas the bar welcomes you in a relaxing atmosphere. Everything contributes to making an unforgettable stay and truly appreciating the taste of the French capital.
Rooms: 328. Hotel Chain: Holiday Inn Hotels & Resorts.

The Hôtel des Mathurins is located in a quiet street in the heart of Paris close to the Madeleine and department stores. The Hôtel des Mathurins and its staff are pleased to welcome you.

The rooms, the bar and the lounge with a library have been totally refurbished in 2004. A new hotel of refined luxury and charm. Close to the most famous monuments of the French capital, the Hôtel des Mathurins invites you to relax and will make your stay, whether it is for business or holiday, a real moment of pleasure. The hotel is located in a quiet street in the heart of Paris just 3 minutes walk from the fashionable boutiques on the faubourg Saint Honore and the famous department stores (Printemps and Galeries Lafayette) magnificent sites (Opera Garnier, La Madeleine, Chmaps Elysees) 29 non smoking rooms
Rooms: 35.

Conveniently located between the Champs-Elysées and La Défense business district, this 4-star luxury hotel offers an ideal backdrop to your Paris holidays and lavish accommodation.

Concorde La Fayette features 950 elegantly designed and well-appointed rooms. Ideal for both business and leisure travellers, they are all extremely comfortable and offer 24-hour room service and sweeping views overlooking the Paris skyline. You can also conduct business in style in the meeting facilities and benefit from the professional facilities on offer.

The state-of-the-art fitness facilities, onsite restaurants and shopping centre situated at the foot of the hotel lend this superb establishment its lavish uniqueness and contribute to making it one of the city’s most famous landmarks.

Rooms: 950. Hotel Chain: Concorde.

In between the Louvre Museum and the Palais Royal gardens, the Grand Hotel du Palais Royal benefits from an exceptional location in the heart of Paris 1st district, where fashion, shopping, culture, gastronomy and arts get together. It is the best starting point to discover Paris.
The Hotel offers a perfect combination of space, charm, calm and comfort. Its building is classified at the historical monuments. All rooms and bathrooms are air-conditioned and soundproofed.

Rooms: 85.